Four alternative methods for tonsillectomy

In 2000, the Federal Food and Drug Administration approved an alternative tonsillectomy, complete tonsillectomy. This new technique, called tonsiloplasty, narrows the tonsils by inserting tiny needle electrodes into the tonsils. Needles emit energy waves that burn tonsils and kill cells. Then the tonsils begin to contract and shrink by themselves.

Doctor examines the child's tonsil, mother sits behind her. (Image: gpointstudio/istock/getty images)

This process does not have many debilitating side effects of tonsillectomy. Tonsillectomy usually makes it difficult for patients to swallow two weeks after surgery. The new operation takes only one hour and can be performed with local anesthetics. It can reduce bleeding and postoperative pain, which may be the result of traditional tonsillectomy.

If you think you may be a candidate for the operation, please contact your doctor.

In 2000, the Federal Food and Drug Administration approved an alternative tonsillectomy with complete tonsillectomy. This new technique, called tonsiloplasty, narrows the tonsils by inserting tiny needle electrodes into the tonsils. Needles emit energy waves that burn tonsils and kill cells. Then the tonsils begin to contract and shrink by themselves.

This operation has no many debilitating side effects of tonsillectomy. Tonsillectomy usually makes it difficult for patients to swallow two weeks after surgery. The new operation takes only one hour and can be performed with local anesthetics. It can reduce bleeding and postoperative pain, which may be the result of traditional tonsillectomy.

If you think you may be a candidate for the operation, please contact your doctor.